I support the Ukrainian people in their fight against corruption and their desire for self-determination, regardless if that means closer ties with the West or the East. That said, ethnically, historically and politically Crimea does not belong to Ukraine. It is predominantly populated by Russians and pro-Russian Ukrainians. Historically it has been Russian territory since the 18th century. Lastly, the political views of the Crimean people are well represented by the Russian flags that are now nearly on every government building in Crimea. Overwhelmingly Crimean people speak, read, write and prefer the Russian language over Ukrainian. Most important of all, if given a democratic choice to stay with Ukraine or reunite with Russia, Crimean people would overwhelmingly vote to reunite with Russia.